Train construction site between Wittenberge and Karstädt: Replacement traffic ensures delays
Train construction site between Wittenberge and Karstädt: Replacement traffic ensures delays
In the northern German region, the railway is an important lifeline for many. But at the moment there are considerable restructuring on the route between Wittenberge and Karstädt, which the travelers present with challenges. Ostdeutsche Eisenbahn GmbH (ODEG) has interrupted train traffic due to construction work, which forces passengers to switch to replacement buses. The RE8, which usually offers a quick connection between Berlin and Hamburg, is therefore affected.
On Tuesday morning, at 9:54 a.m., the RE8 reaches Wittenberge train station. Travelers who want to continue to Ludwigslust, Schwerin, Wismar or Boizenburg have to switch to the buses provided. While this section of the route has been blocked since August 16, long-distance and freight trains are diverted via alternative routes. For the travelers, this means: 21 minutes of waiting until the buses go - much longer than the usual train ride of only seven minutes between Wittenberge and Karstädt.
Replacement traffic and waiting times
The situation at Wittenberge train station is calm, but not without complications. Travelers are waiting for the buses, which descend from the station forecourt in Wittenberge 21 minutes after the arrival of the Re8. An employee on site is ready to clarify questions, while the mood on the bus is more steamed. The connection is paid to travelers who often travel from other regions to take part in the Indian Spirit Festival, which has recently taken place in Eldena.
For some travelers, however, the changeover is a significant challenge. Arrived in Karstädt, you have to overcome a long ramp because the train station does not offer an elevator. This is particularly stressful for people with restricted mobility, strollers or heavy luggage. A traveler surveyed notes that the decision -making process for arrival on track 3 instead of on track 1 for people with health restrictions is not understandable.
The ODEG reacted to the ongoing criticism and explains that track 1 is currently unavailable for trains due to the planned construction work. According to Lars Gehrke, one of the managing directors, all trains according to Gleis 4, platform 3 have been rated in the current timetable. As a result, travelers are disadvantaged with mobility restrictions. The ODEG is committed to improving the situation, but so far there are no solutions in sight.
High traffic through festivals
In addition to the everyday commuters who often travel between the cities of Berlin and Hamburg, there are interesting developments in travel behavior. Deutsche Bahn has announced that due to the Evolution Festival, which will take place in Karstädt from September 5th to September 8th These events make it necessary to point out the additional burden on replacement traffic and recommend alternatives.
Despite the adversity, many travelers seem to wear the situation with patience. While you are waiting for your buses, discussions about the long detours and the associated waiting time are omnipresent. A passenger who comes from the renowned Indian Spirit Festival expresses it as follows: "The replacement traffic works well, even if it takes." A positive signal for the providers, but the challenges remain unmistakable.
The changes in rail traffic make it clear how important a well thought-out infrastructure is for the mobility of people. It remains to be seen how those responsible react to the existing problems and whether there will be short -term improvements for passengers.